Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What should I do each quarter to help my benefits arrive on time?
  2. If you have 90 or more credits or have declared a major, as soon as you are registered, come to the Veterans Center for a course approval form. If you have less than 90 credits or haven't yet declared a major, as soon as you are registered, bring a copy of your class schedule to the Veterans Center.

  3. Why does the VA make me have quarterly course approval forms signed by my advisor?
  4. Once you become a junior or declare a major, the VA requires that your courses fulfill degree requirements, as electives, VLPA, or major requirements.

  5. What will happen if I turn in a quarterly course approval sticker that is not stuck to my quarterly schedule?
  6. If the sticker is not attached to your quarterly schedule, you will be required to have your advisor sign a new one, as a signed sticker by itself does not indicate that your coursework is applicable to your degree.

  7. Do I have to be in my major to declare it with the VA?
  8. No, it is okay if your major is competitive and it takes a few quarters to get in, or if you are working on prerequisites.

  9. Do I have to be attending full-time to get benefits?
  10. No, when your enrollment is certified, the number of credits you are taking is reported to the VA and they pay you at the rate at which you are entitled.

  11. My payment is late, is my claim OK?
  12. If you have turned in required veterans paperwork to the Veterans Center and it is your first payment of the quarter, it is likely due to the backlog that happens at the beginning of each quarter. Because we are required to wait for the UW to post your tuition and fees before reporting them to the VA, your enrollment may be certified a little later than normal.

    You can call the VA to check on the status of your claim, or contact the Veterans Center for more information.

  13. What is the VA's turnaround time for payment?
  14. It takes about 24 days from the time your enrollment is certified.

  15. What is the VA's phone number?
  16. The VA's phone number is 1-888-442-4551. When you hear the automated system answer, dial 1 then 0.

  17. I can't get through to the VA, what should I do?
  18. The VA often has high call volume times. Try again or try calling in the mornings.

  19. What should I do if I change my address?
  20. Call the VA directly (1-888-442-4551) or change your address under the VA's "ask a question" section on their website. You also need to change your address with the UW Registrar. In addition, contact the Veterans Center Office with your new address so it can be changed in your VA file.